Qualifications and training

I am a registered and accredited psychotherapeutic counsellor (NCPS), certified somatic therapist, and certified birth and perinatal trauma practitioner. With more than 20 years of therapeutic experience, I specialise in offering deeply compassionate, body-based support for adults navigating complex trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, burnout, dissociation, and emotional overwhelm.

About Me

My name is Kirsteen Anderssen and I am a certified psychotherapist, embodied mentor, and certified trainer of Psychodramatic Bodywork®. With decades of experience guiding individuals, groups and communities through transformation, I serve as a grief worker, Temple of Rage facilitator, and certified spiritual bodyworker. As a pleasure activist and attachment specialist I integrate body, spirit, and psyche to create spaces where healing and liberation can take root. Central to my work is the teaching that the body is the bridge to the unconscious - a doorway to grief, rage, pleasure, and embodied presence. My work honours the wisdom of neurodivergence, queerness, and the necessity of crossing boundaries between disciplines, practices, and ways of knowing. Known as a radical midwife of transition, I support people in birthing new versions of themselves - through grief, rage, pleasure, and embodied presence. A committed cross-pollinator, I weave together therapeutic modalities, spiritual practice, and community healing to help others reclaim their vitality, belonging, and wholeness.

My Approach

My practice is rooted in trauma-informed, somatic approaches, with a strong emphasis on consent, relational safety, embodied expression, and regulation strategies. I also draw on extensive training in attachment theory, polyvagal theory, and the Wheel of Consent, weaving these frameworks into my therapeutic work to support lasting healing and integration.

Alongside 1-2-1 sessions (in person in Southampton and online), I facilitate groups and workshops that invite connection, embodiment, and emotional release in safe and supportive spaces.

As someone with lived experience of both neurodivergence and LGBTQ+ identity, I bring a grounded, inclusive perspective to my work. I know how vital it is to feel seen, safe, and supported on the journey of healing, and I hold space with deep respect for each person’s unique path.

Testimonials

I now am able to talk about my labour without feeling dread, anxiety and disappointment.

Since working with Kirsteen on my birth trauma resolution i have noticed a big reduction in my anxiety and the distress caused by my birth and post birth experience. I am now able to recall the memories of the birth of my daughter in a more positive light. This has lifted the weight I felt and given me the opportunity to appreciate that the birth, although difficult, gave me the greatest gift. I now am able to talk about my labour without feeling dread, anxiety and disappointment. I will always remember the tough time I had, but being able to reflect in a more objective manner has taken away the anxiety. Thanks again Kirsteen.

Steph,

Southampton

This is a very unique service that truly specialises in releasing trauma.

The best gift I've been given by Kirsteen, is the ability to now have the first thought about my traumatic birth be a content and happy one. I worked with Kirsteen four years after the birth of my child. Despite progress over the years, I still struggled with many aspects of my child's birth. I feel very honoured to have met and worked with Kirsteen.

This is a very unique service that truly specialises in releasing trauma. Kirsteen is the consummate professional, I highly recommend her services for this very delicate work.

Sinead,

Hampshire